I don't really listen to Common but he does have some good lyrics. I like Cudi's metaphors and his way of explaining things, very indirect.

I can understand that. I hope you don't get the impression that I slighted you in my post, I believe we all see (and hear) things a little differently. I think the most important thing when it comes to music is having people actually analyzing and enjoying it for it's musical qualities and not just using the shallow metaphors as a billboard for their lifestyle. Just about everyone that posted has some love of music that extends beyond background noise for every day life.

It's also my belief that style (musical or otherwise) is generational and a lot of music is not forwards-compatible to most people. I was born in 86. Not much music after 95 that I get into, though there's some. Most of what I like is considered before my time. Not many people that are older that solely listen to newer music, you know?